Llanelli Bat Expert at Evening Event
Bat expert and WWT Llanelli volunteer, Laura Bowen 25 from Llangennech will be passing on her knowledge to families attending an after-dark bat walk at WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre on Friday 23 September.
The evening event will give families a unique chance to explore the reserve after hours and look and listen for bats with their own bat detectors whilst learning more about how they survive and why wetlands are a great environment for them.
Laura who has volunteered at WWT Llanelli for 2 years said: “I’ve always had an interest in ecology and nature and love being outdoors. I began doing bat work during a 6 month placement at an Ecological Consultancy in Cardiff, and it is here that I began to train as a bat surveyor. I love getting involved with the bat walk at WWT Llanelli, it’s great to see people (adults and children of all ages) get excited about these unassuming animals”.
During the bat walk there are two different species of bats that are likely to be detected including the common pipistrelle and soprano pipistrelle. Even though these species are very small with bodies the size of a 2p coin, their large wing span makes them clearly visible in the night sky. They can also manage to eat an incredible 3,000 insects a night!
Laura added: “Before I began working with bats I never took much notice of them, especially as they only come out at night, however after being introduced to them and learning more, they are an incredibly fascinating and clever species that you can’t fail to be excited about. I would encourage everyone to go out and observe bats and our bat walk is a great opportunity to learn more and get help identifying them using our special detectors before they hibernate in the autumn”.
The bat walk starts at 6.30pm with batty craft making followed by the walk at 7pm and hot chocolate back at the centre. Places are £5pp and booking is essential. Contact WWT Llanelli to book and find out more 01554 741087 wwt.org/llanelli
